US Rebuffs Allegations of Involvement in Bangladesh Crisis Amidst Protests and Unrest

The United States has rejected claims of involvement in Bangladesh's crisis, emphasizing the internal nature of the unrest. The White House reiterated support for Bangladeshi self-determination. Protests in Washington called for the protection of minority Hindus amid escalating violence following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation.

The United States has firmly rejected allegations of its involvement in the Bangladesh crisis, particularly in relation to the protests that have resulted in hundreds of deaths. During a media briefing on Monday, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean Pierre stated, "We have had no involvement at all. Reports or rumours of U.S. government involvement are simply false."

Jean Pierre stressed that the future of Bangladesh should be determined by its own people. "This is a choice for and by the Bangladeshi people. Any allegations of our involvement are simply untrue," she emphasized.

Michael Kugelman, a U.S.-based foreign policy expert, concurred, noting that there was no plausible evidence to support claims of foreign interference. Kugelman highlighted that the crisis stemmed from internal factors, driven by students dissatisfied with job quotas and government actions. "The movement grew due to internal reasons," he explained. Kugelman dismissed claims by Sheikh Hasina's son of conspiracy theories regarding foreign influence.

Meanwhile, protests erupted outside the White House, condemning the violence against Hindus in Bangladesh. Jean Pierre noted that the U.S. would continue to monitor the situation. "The President has been consistent in speaking out on human rights issues," she added.

The political situation in Bangladesh remains tense following Sheikh Hasina's resignation amid protests led by students against government job quotas. Demonstrations have since escalated, demanding broader political reforms.

Protests in Washington saw participants from diverse backgrounds, who called for the protection of Bangladeshi minorities. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also appealed for the safety of Hindus and minorities in Bangladesh, emphasizing India's commitment to peace and security in the region. Thousands of Bangladeshi Hindus have fled to India to escape ongoing violence.

(With inputs from agencies.)